Sports Development Fund


The Sports Development Fund was started in 2006 as part of the Columbia Convention & Visitors Bureau Tourism Development Program and is made available through 1% of Columbia’s lodging tax. The tourism funds are awarded to those events, festivals and attractions that generate overnight stays in local hotels, have potential for growth and provide overall economic development.

Applications are accepted and reviewed by the CVB Advisory Board quarterly, or during January, April, July and October of each year. Applications must be received at least 120 days prior to the event start date and meet specific criteria as outlined in the application. Events are eligible for up to three years of funding and can be used for site fees, bid fees, trophies, medals, monetary awards, rights/sanction fees, and promotional materials.

Questions? Contact Adam Ziervogel at the Columbia CVB at 573-874-7734 or Adam.Ziervogel@como.gov.

FY2023 Sports Development Application


A partial list of past events that have been granted Sports Development Funds:

USA Rugby Fall College Regional Playoff

Special Olympics State Summer Games

SEC Swimming and Diving Championships

AJGA Stan Utley/Mind-America Junior Golf Foundation Championships

USA Swimming Speedo Sectionals

MSHSAA State Wrestling Championships

NAIA Volleyball National Championships

Midwest Campus Clash & Gaming Expo

Show-Me State Games

Missouri Middle School State Basketball Championships

NIRSA Region 16 Soccer Championships

USA Ultimate Midwest Throwdown

PDGA Tim Selinske U.S. Masters Championships

National Intercollegiate Wheelchair Basketball Championships